Ginger and immunity: how ginger boosts the immune system in winter

📌 Summary
A sugar-free ginger shot stimulates the immune system through multiple mechanisms: it increases the activity of natural killer cells, inhibits viral replication, and reduces inflammation. Scientific evidence supports its use as a preventative measure in autumn and winter. A daily ginger shot is sufficient.

Ginger and the immune system: what does science say?

Every autumn and winter, millions of Belgians look for ways to prevent colds and flu. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) has been known as an immunostimulant in traditional medicine for centuries. Modern studies confirm: gingerols and shogaols have direct antiviral, antibacterial, and immunomodulatory effects.

How ginger strengthens the immune system

1. Stimulates innate ginger immunity

Ginger increases the activity of macrophages and natural killer (NK) cells — your immune system's first line of defense. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2011) showed that gingerols significantly increased T-lymphocyte proliferation in vitro and modulated cytokine production.

2. Antiviral properties

Research in Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2013) showed that fresh ginger extract inhibits the adhesion of Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus (HRSV) to airway cells. Fresh ginger was significantly more effective than dried powder. This makes cold-press shots particularly suitable.

3. Antibacterial action

Gingerols have antibacterial activity against a broad spectrum of pathogens including Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus, and E. coli. In the mouth and throat, this can help limit the initial source of infection.

4. Anti-inflammatory during illness

When you are sick, the immune response itself causes many symptoms (fever, pain, fatigue). Ginger modulates this response by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α), contributing to faster recovery.

5. Antioxidant protection

Oxidative cortisol-naturel">stress weakens the immune system. Ginger is a powerful antioxidant — it increases the activity of enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase, and protects immune cells from free radicals.

Ginger vs. other immune boosters: comparison

Agent Evidence for immunity Disadvantages
Ginger + turmeric (INTI) ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Strong (antiviral + anti-inflammatory) Slightly pungent taste
Vitamin C ⭐⭐⭐ Good (antioxidant) Limited effect on flu
Echinacea ⭐⭐⭐ Moderate (variable studies) Not for long-term use
Zinc ⭐⭐⭐ Good (shortens cold duration) Nausea at high doses
Propolis ⭐⭐⭐ Good (antibacterial) Allergy risk

Practical advice: using ginger in winter

  • Morning on an empty stomach: Take your ginger shot on an empty stomach for maximum absorption of gingerols
  • Combine with vitamin C: The lemon in INTI shots provides natural vitamin C that enhances the immunostimulating effect
  • Daily preventative: Start in September before flu season begins — 1 shot per day is sufficient
  • At first symptoms: Increase to 2 shots per day at the first signs of a cold
  • Warmth + ginger: Ginger shot dissolved in warm (not boiling) water soothes the throat

INTI: Belgian ginger shot for winter immunity

INTI Essence combines organic cold-press ginger, turmeric, and lemon — three immunomodulating ingredients in one shot. Produced in Meise (Flemish Brabant) without preservatives or added sugars. Turmeric enhances the anti-inflammatory-science-utilisation">anti-inflammatory effect of ginger through curcumin, while lemon provides vitamin C.

Order online via inti-drink.com — free delivery for €79.99+.

Frequently asked questions: ginger and immunity

Does ginger really help against colds?

Ginger has antiviral and immunostimulating properties that can reduce the likelihood of colds and accelerate recovery. It is not a medicine, but a scientifically supported preventative approach.

How quickly does ginger affect the immune system?

Acute antiviral effects occur within hours. For a structural strengthening of the immune system, daily use for 2–4 weeks is recommended.

Can I take ginger all year round for immunity?

Yes. Ginger is safe for daily use all year round. Unlike some herbal supplements (such as echinacea), there is no recommendation to "pause" ginger.

Which is better for immunity: ginger or echinacea?

Both have scientific evidence, but ginger has a broader spectrum of action (antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant). Echinacea has more evidence specifically for shortening the duration of colds but should not be used long-term. Ginger can be taken all year round.

Sources: Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2011, 2013); Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (2019); Food & Function (2020); Nutrients (2021).

Related Articles

Read more on related topics :

Back to blog